2019 Gender Odyssey

LGBTQ+ youth are over-represented in the foster care system. A study found that over 30% of LGBTQ+ youth reported suffering physical violence at the hands of a family member after coming out. Child welfare systems have an obligation to protect, affirm and support LGBTQ+ while in out-of-home care. San Diego county's child welfare system is implementing system-wide best practices in collaboration with the LGBTQ+ community, school districts, direct-service providers and several other stakeholders to ensure LGBTQ+ foster youth are supported by the most comprehensive continuum of care. Participants will hear from a panel about San Diego's child welfare system's journey: the lessons learned along the way and the future of a more affirming and inclusive system.

Professional